Billy Forbes Awarded U.S. Soccer B Football Coaching License
Billy Forbes recently achieved his U.S. Soccer B Coaching License following the successful completion of a demanding training course. This accomplishment signifies his expertise and proficiency in coaching football. The U.S. Soccer ‘B’ License, an integral component of U.S. Soccer’s coach licensing system, is designed to equip coaches to effectively engage with youth or senior teams within a performance-oriented setting. Key objectives of the program include developing and optimizing tailored training sessions to enhance player development, devising age-appropriate game strategies in line with the game model, and fostering a positive and secure environment that promotes respect, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging. This certification underscores Billy’s unwavering dedication to football and his passion for nurturing both young talents and seasoned athletes to enhance their skills on the field. Armed with his new coaching license, Billy is now positioned to mentor and motivate the upcoming generation of footballers, imparting essential values such as teamwork, sportsmanship, and resilience.
Billy's affinity for football blossomed during his time at TCIFA, where he engaged in the youth development football program. Recognizing his potential, coaches nurtured his talent, fostering his growth into a skilled and enthusiastic player. Through training sessions and match participation, his passion for the sport intensified. Unbeknownst to him, his journey at TCIFA not only honed his athletic abilities but also instilled in him essential values such as teamwork, resilience, and the pursuit of aspirations both on and off the field.
As his career progressed, Billy received his first invitation from the Vancouver Whitecaps in Canada, which eventually led to a scholarship with Western Texas College. Subsequently, he competed for Lubbock Christian University. During his professional career, he featured for various teams including Mississippi Brilla in the USL PDL during the summer of 2012. In May 2014, he transitioned to the San Antonio Scorpions from the WV King's Warriors. Following this, he signed with the NASL expansion team Rayo OKC on January 28, 2016.
After a stint with the Phoenix Rising in the 2018 season, he rejoined San Antonio FC for the 2019 season, before moving to Austin Bold FC in January 2020. His tenure at Austin Bold FC was followed by a transfer to Miami FC, effective January 11, 2021. Subsequently, he signed with Detroit City FC on March 2, 2022, and was loaned to Valour FC of the Canadian Premier League in July 2022, departing after the conclusion of the 2022 season. In May 2023, Forbes finalized a deal with Central Valley Fuego, a USL League One team, continuing his professional football journey.
Throughout his professional career, Billy maintained a steadfast dedication to representing the Turks and Caicos National Football and Beach Soccer Teams. His inaugural appearance dates back to 2008 during a World Cup qualifying match against St. Lucia, marking the commencement of his journey. Notably, he was bestowed the prestigious title of Captain of the National Teams in recognition of his leadership qualities.
Billy is presently pursuing a legal education while concurrently employed at the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission.
Billy commented, “ As I shift from professional athlete to my next career, it is important to me to still be involved with the sport that presented me with countless opportunities. For the past 6 months I learnt the game I’ve played for 12+ years as a Pro athlete in a different light. It challenged me and pushed me in a way I didn’t know existed. So, I am grateful for the experience, and connections made throughout the course. Having a Growth mindset is key, we keep learning and keep pushing! The opportunity for taking the B License presented itself and I felt this was the way to remain involved in the sport in a different aspect than a player. It was challenging, intriguing, and an opportunity I am grateful for. This License allows me to continue to give to the sport and invest in others at many different levels.”
President Sonia remarked, "Congratulations to Billy on this remarkable achievement. I have witnessed him not only enhance his skills as a player but also develop his character as a growing individual. His unwavering dedication and enthusiasm for football serve as a true inspiration. I firmly believe that his current success marks merely the inception of a promising future ahead. Billy's progression exemplifies the values of diligence, resilience, and self-belief. May he continue to attain further accomplishments and reach new milestones in his illustrious career. I am proud!"